Asia’s Wild Wonders Come Alive: Cincinnati Zoo Unveils Lively Elephant Trek Expansion
The Cincinnati Zoo is taking visitors on a vibrant journey across the heart of Asia with the official unveiling of its latest expansion inside the Elephant Trek exhibit. Launching April 14, the new area isn’t just about elephants—it’s a celebration of biodiversity, clever conservation, and interactive learning, all bringing guests closer to a dazzling array of species and habitats rarely seen outside their native lands.
This final chapter of the Elephant Trek comes after the October debut of the main exhibit, where crowds delighted in the antics of eight Asian elephants. Now, zoo director Thane Maynard promises "another great view of the elephants and opportunities to see other species native to Asia up close." Indeed, visitors can encounter Asian small-clawed otters, rhinoceros hornbills, and highly vocal Siamang gibbons—all thriving in thoughtfully crafted landscapes echoing the creatures’ natural homes.
The stars of the new section are surely otters Munti and Berbak, delighting all ages from multiple vantage points. Meanwhile, Sebastian and Berbak, the Siamang gibbons, become quite the spectacle as their resounding calls echo across the exhibit—sometimes reaching an impressive two miles! All featured animals participate in breeding programs recommended by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, stirring hope for future offspring and a boost to global conservation efforts.
Beyond simply viewing, the Cincinnati Zoo emphasizes immersive education. Interactive stops like the Tea Garden educate guests about "elephant-friendly" agriculture, while the Buzzing Bee Box introduces beehive fences that protect crops by keeping elephants at bay—a win-win for wildlife and farmers. Family-friendly activities abound: pose with the apes at the 'Pose Like a Siamang' photo op, and master foraging with the 'Otter Know What's for Lunch' tactile challenge, both blending fun with real wildlife skills.
Another highlight is the Tom Yum Soup Garden, inspired by the NGO Bring the Elephant Home. Here, ingredients used by local communities to safely deter elephants are showcased, spotlighting innovative ways to coexist while empowering Asian economies.
As if fauna weren’t enough, springtime at the zoo is a visual feast—110,000 tulips and over a million daffodils, hyacinths, flowering trees, and shrubs transform the grounds into an explosion of colors, just in time for visitors to enjoy both nature’s blooms and animal wonders.
Cincinnati Zoo’s blend of botanics and biodiversity is more than just an exhibit—it's an inspiring testament to the power of creative conservation. How do you think zoos can best balance education, animal welfare, and entertainment? Share your thoughts below and join the conversation on the future of wildlife adventures!
